Thursday, November 8, 2012

Process of HIV Treatment in the Philippines

Here is the process of HIV treatment in the Philippines:

A. Take the HIV Test.
     1. If the result is Non-Reactive (Negative), repeat the test after 3 months. If still non-reactive, you can repeat the test after 1 year.
     2. If the result is Reactive (Positive):
         a. Go to the nearest HIV Treatment Hub
         b. Take the initial lab tests required including CD4. Most hubs wont require the initial Viral Load (VL) but it is best that you get it for baseline information.

B. Result of Labs
    1. If you have infections, get treatment
    2. If your CD4 is above 350, come back after 6 months. 
    3. If your CD4 is below 350, ARV's will be prescribed:
        a. You will undergo a 2 week trial period. If there are no adverse effects (side effects), you will continue with the ARV's. If There are adverse effects, your HIv doctor will change your ARV's.
        b. Prophylaxis is usually given if CD4 is below 200.

C. ARV Treatment
    1. If you don't have adverse effects from your ARV's after the trial period, you will be given 1 to 3 month supply of your ARV's.
    2. Come back to the treatment hub for your refill of your ARV's a week before you run out.
   
D. CD4 and VL Testing
    1. CD4 test is repeated every 6 months (after the last CD4 count)
    2. Viral Load Test is repeated every year. The VL test should be taken together with the initial CD4 test and should be taken a year after the last VL.

Here is the Flow Chart of the Process:



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NO PLHIV is alone with his or her struggle with HIV!"

-Pozziepinoy-


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